Order Bourbon online and have it shipped?

[brian12069]

I'm curious who has ordered bourbon online and had it mailed to there house? I live in NY State. How has your luck been and how about the prices and shipping prices? THANKS!

[TNbourbon]

Here's a link to the Wine Institute's summary of state-by-state shipment laws:

State Liquor Shipment Laws

Although this site is specific to wines, these actually are 'alcohol'-shipment laws, and applicible to spirits, as well.

As you can see, direct shipment to New York is illegal, as is so to all but the 13 so-called 'reciprocity' states. I believe, however, if you travel overseas for more than 48 hours, you can ship alcohol purchases you make back to yourself (following customs rules).

Consider yourself lucky -- technically, when I buy even my favorite Ancient Ancient Age 10yo in KY and drive back home to TN with it, I'm committing a felony.

[Paradox]

I live in NY and do it all the time for stuff I cannot get here. Shipping is a little $$ but if you wait until you can order alot of bottles it becomes cheaper. Generally 12 bottles of the max for a box and its $30 shipping. Less than $3 per bottle is less than tax would be here in NY so its worthwhile...

[TNbourbon]

Interesting. Of course, I, too, have had private (unmarked) shipments made to me here occasionally, but that doesn't make it legal.

And, after reviewing the liquor delivery laws on NY State's liquor control website, it says pretty clearly that retail delivery can only be made by the store's own messengers or trucking. Implicit is that common carriers (UPS, FedEx) are not allowed. How do you receive your goods from out-of-state (I think Sam's either has, or is building, a NYC store now)?

[brian12069]

Paradox...you say you do it all the time...who do you recomend I buy from?

[Paradox]

As long as they have what you are looking for, I say stick with Binny's or Sam's. They've got a great selection and competitive prices.

[LeNell]

Of course, New York and many other states are now trying to crack down on sales from other states where no tax has been collected. CNN Article